Statement by Commission Vice-President Maroš Šefčovič following the conclusion of the EU-UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement - Hoofdinhoud

The European Commission Vice-President Maroš Šefčovič warmly welcomes the ratification of the EU-UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement, which will now be fully applicable as of 1 May 2021. This comes after an overwhelming vote of consent by the European Parliament on 27 April and subsequent Council decision today, thereby concluding the ratification process. The EU and the UK will exchange letters to that effect.

"The ratification of the Trade and Cooperation Agreement is good news for European citizens and businesses. It provides a solid foundation for our longstanding friendship, cooperation and partnership with the United Kingdom on the basis of shared interests and values.

In practice, the Agreement helps avoid significant disruptions, while protecting European interests and upholding the integrity of our Single Market. It also ensures a robust level playing field, by maintaining high levels of protection in areas, such as climate and environmental protection, social and labour rights, or State aid. Moreover, the Agreement includes effective enforcement, a binding dispute settlement mechanism and the possibility for both parties to take remedial measures.

Democratic scrutiny will continue to be key in the implementation phase of the Agreement in order to ensure faithful compliance. Unity among EU institutions and Member States will remain a cornerstone during this new chapter in our EU-UK relations."

Vice-President Šefčovič reiterates that the European Commission looks forward to a strong, constructive and collaborative partnership with the United Kingdom, based on mutual trust and respect. We have far more in common than that which divides us. He will reach out this week to Lord David Frost i, co-chair of the EU-UK Partnership Council, to prepare the launch of its work, including the work of Specialised Committees.

Finally, the Commission will continue to work tirelessly for joint solutions so that the Withdrawal Agreement, and the Protocol on Ireland / Northern Ireland in particular, is also fully implemented and works for the benefit of everyone in Northern Ireland.